Pershore

Plum orchards stretch across the Vale of Evesham here, their spring blossoms a sight that draws visitors from across the Midlands. This market town sits where the River Avon curves through some of Worcestershire's richest agricultural land, with the dramatic outline of Bredon Hill rising to the southeast.

Pershore Abbey dominates the town centre - what remains of it anyway. The Norman tower and parts of the original structure survived Henry VIII's dissolution, creating an oddly truncated but rather magnificent building. Wander through and you'll spot the Romanesque sculpture tucked away inside.

Bredon Hill makes for a proper walk. The climb up from the valley floor takes about an hour, but the views from the Toposcope at the summit stretch across three counties on a clear day. The Banbury Stone marks one of the ancient boundaries, while Kemerton Camp Hillfort shows this spot's been significant for over 2,000 years.

Down in the woods - Warren Wood, Comberton Wood, and Doctors Wood - footpaths weave between ancient oaks and newer plantings. Spring brings bluebells; autumn delivers spectacular colour. The Monument, a folly visible from miles around, sits on the hill's southern slopes.

Evesham lies just four miles northwest, connected by regular bus services. From there, trains reach Worcester in 20 minutes or Birmingham in under an hour. The M5 runs close by if you're driving.

Staying at one of the holiday parks dotted around the area puts you right in the heart of fruit-growing country. Plum Tree Glamping offers bell tents with wood-fired hot tubs, while Bowbrook Lodges provides a more luxurious base. Either way, you're perfectly placed for exploring both the Cotswolds edge and the Malvern Hills - both less than half an hour away.